In May 2023, 1822direkt, a subsidiary of Frankfurter Sparkasse, approached neotares with a clear task: design a new office environment that reflects changing work styles, particularly the desire for flexibility and meeting spaces, meets high-quality standards, and complies with normative banking requirements.

The sales company of Frankfurter Sparkasse and the real estate agency Colliers International had previously embarked on a “stay or leave” process, which resulted in the identification of a suitable new space. Located in the immediate vicinity of the former headquarters, the new space offered optimal conditions for implementing the new concept in terms of both space and functionality. neotares was then commissioned to develop the concept and design.

To develop a customized spatial concept, an intensive participatory process involving management and the individual departments was chosen. Particular attention was paid to ensuring the rooms would support future workflows optimally and allow the company's character to be experienced spatially.

The landlord completely gutted and renovated the existing space to meet new requirements, covering an area of around 1,600 square meters. The result is a high-quality workspace that combines flexibility, efficiency, and comfort. The thoughtful combination of hard and soft flooring, as well as the glass partition walls, ensures openness and transparency — in line with the guiding principle of "bringing 1822direkt to life."

A color scheme provides structure and direction to the four quadrants of the space. The WorkCafé, the heart of the office, is intentionally designed with a neutral color palette. It encourages employees to engage in informal conversations and fosters a sense of community. This reflects a central aspect of the new work culture at 1822direkt.

Thanks to the cooperative collaboration with the building owner, extensive changes could be implemented. The introduction of desk sharing allowed for the effective and compact use of space. At the same time, new social and recreation areas, as well as modern meeting rooms, were created. A clear, contemporary design language and an energy-optimized lighting concept complete the room concept. The result is a space that offers modern workplaces for 150 employees and promotes openness, flexibility, and identity.

Photos: Nikolay Kazakov